RUSSIA
Sergei Lavrov – Foreign Minister
Lavrov criticized on Tuesday during his press conference in Algeria his European Union counterpart Josep Borrell’s suggestion that the money from the seized Russian assets should be used to rebuild Ukraine. Russia’s top diplomat previously accused the West of “stealing” $300 billion to “punish” Russia.
S. KOREA
Yoon Suk Yeol – President
South Korea’s new President Yoon Suk Yeol -a conservative from the People Power Party- promised an “audacious plan” to strengthen North Korea’s economy in exchange for denuclearization in his inauguration speech Tuesday.
“As the new President, I am deeply humbled by the awesome duty to lead our nation out of the latest crises,” he said. “I am also grateful to be entrusted by the people of this great nation. I am confident that once again, we will overcome.”
SRI LANKA
Gotabaya Rajapaksa – President
As violence broke out in many parts of the country over the government’s handling of a devastating economic crisis, Sri Lanka president took to Twitter: “This is the time for all Sri Lankans to join hands as one, to overcome the economic, social & political challenges,” Rajapaksa said on Wednesday. “I urge all #Srilankans to reject the subversive attempts to push you towards racial & religious disharmony. Promoting moderation, toleration & coexistence is vital.”
